Starting a Tool Kit
Scott Cam, the builder from Backyard Blitz, put together a basic tool kit for the home handyman. When buying tools, always go for the best quality you can afford. Once you have assembled your basic tool kit, you can supplement when necessary by hiring specialist tools for particular jobs.
Scott’s basic tool kit
Tool box, $55: essential for keeping your tools in order. Scott chose a 65cm (26″) tool box, but there are many different kinds available.
Yellow tape, 8m, $12.50: this particular tape measure has a wide, strong blade. Tape measures with thin blades don’t work as well because they tend to bend and flop over when measuring. Tape measures range in price from about $10 to $30.
Combination square, $53.50: this tool has a slide, which adjusts to form a 45 or 90 degree angle. Combination squares cost from $33 to $55.
Standard square, $10: a basic, non-adjustable square.
Level, 600mm, $17: this level can be used vertically or horizontally. Levels vary in price from about $14 to $60.
Screwdriver, 14 piece set, $35: this set has screwdrivers of all different sizes with both Phillips and slot heads. Expect to pay from $20 to $50 for a screwdriver set.
Shifting spanner, 10mm: adjusts to fit most sized nuts, so you don’t need a full spanner kit. Shifters cost from $10 to $20.
Multigrips, $35: this tool will grip round pipes, nuts and bolts. Multigrips also act as pliers. They are priced from $20 to $35.
Tradesman’s saw, $50: Scott uses a quality, tradesman’s saw. When blunt the teeth can be re-set and sharpened. Cheaper, disposable saws are available. Saws range in price from $27 to $50.
Hacksaw, $19.50: used for cutting metal, hacksaws cost from $10 to $20.
Stanley knife, $15: Scottie said that every tradesman needs a trimming knife. They are used for all sorts of jobs, from cutting carpet to sharpening your pencil.
Chisel set, 3 piece, $71: chisels can be purchased individually or in boxed sets.
AntiVibe hammer, 24oz, $55: Scott stressed the importance of buying a good quality hammer, and said that hammers with timber handles snap at the head after about 10 years. AntiVibe hammers are designed to absorb vibrations to the arm, thus reducing fatigue. Hammers cost from about $10 to $80.
Carpenter’s belt: great for carrying tools on the job, a carpenter’s belt will make you look like a professional. Expect to pay $37 to $47.
Mitre box, $16.50: useful for cutting timber at an angle.
Safety glasses, $10-$20: essential gear when doing any work around the house.